Common Heart Medication Gains Traction as Off-Label Anxiety Treatment
NEW YORK – Beta blockers,traditionally prescribed for heart conditions like high blood pressure,are increasingly being used off-label to manage anxiety,fueled by recent celebrity endorsements and growing awareness of the medication’s potential benefits for performance and social anxiety. Doctors report a rising number of patients inquiring about the drugs, which can physically mitigate the symptoms of anxiety – such as a racing heart and trembling – without directly addressing the psychological causes.
While not a new phenomenon, the trend has gained momentum as public figures openly discuss their use of beta blockers for managing anxiety in high-pressure situations. This has sparked both interest and debate within the medical community, with experts emphasizing the importance of responsible use and integration with extensive mental health strategies. Anxiety disorders affect millions of Americans, and the search for effective, accessible treatments remains a notable public health concern.
“For the right person,beta blockers can be life-changing,” said Dr. Daniel Amen, a psychiatrist and brain health expert. “I’ve seen them help people give TED talks, pass board exams, sing on stage and walk into big life moments with confidence … When you quiet the body, you free the brain to work at its best.”
Beta blockers work by blocking the effects of adrenaline, a hormone released during stressful situations.This can help reduce physical symptoms of anxiety, allowing individuals to function more effectively. However, they do not address the underlying causes of anxiety and are generally not recommended for long-term use as a sole treatment.
Dr. Amen welcomes the recent celebrity endorsements, noting anxiety is “one of the most common mental health challenges today.” He stressed,however,that beta blockers are not “magic pills,” and work best when combined with healthy coping strategies,like breathing techniques,changing toxic thought patterns and eating a brain-healthy diet.
“Beta blockers are finally getting credit as a simple, safe option that can make a big difference,” he said.
